Rethinking Hustle Culture
We see it glamorized all the time—5 a.m. wake-ups and working late. That’s because, for many people, success means constant productivity.
However, is the allure of "hustle culture" worth it, considering the potential health risks?
In one survey, 61% of workers reported feeling productive, but 83% expressed a sense of “productivity anxiety.” They were concerned they weren’t using their time wisely or weren’t completing enough tasks. Some even classified a workday as “good” if they met a deadline and as “bad” if they made a mistake.
According to the American Psychological Association, that anxiety has been steadily increasing by about 5% per year since 2022.
However, task-based panic isn’t the only risk of the “rise and grind” mindset. Overworking can lead to chronic stress, sleep disturbances, lower immunity, muscle aches, headaches, digestive issues and a higher risk of high blood pressure, stroke and heart attack.
In fact, a 2016 study found that as many as 745,000 deaths were linked to working long hours. People who worked 55 hours per week or more had a 42% increased risk of dying from heart disease and a 19% higher risk of stroke. This was especially true among men and those who worked long hours between the ages of 45 and 74.
That’s also why 70% of people surveyed in 2022 said they’re considering prioritizing their personal lives over careers, even if that means taking a pay cut.
And sure, many of us can’t afford a change in our finances, but we can change our mentality about work. Some ways to do that include:
Establishing clear boundaries. Use time off, like lunch breaks or vacations, to actually take a break! Don’t feel guilty about using that time to recharge and disconnect from work. It’s not lazy to rest. You earned it! So live in the moment with your family or friends on those days.
Using your time more effectively. If you’re not sure where your time goes, maybe you’re underestimating how long each step takes. So, break down the work into smaller parts and determine how long it will take. You might also want to consider whether you’re procrastinating or getting distracted during those tasks.
Prioritizing your physical and mental health. You should sleep seven to nine hours per night, exercise, eat healthily and stay hydrated. If you’re battling chronic stress, consider making an appointment with a mental health professional.
Remember, you’re more than your output. And it’s important to take time away from work to focus on what really matters—like helping your kids make a bubble beard.
Find a Doctor
One out of every five people visits their doctor about stress, anxiety and depression. So, don’t be afraid to reach out if you’re feeling persistently stressed—especially due to overworking.
Find a Doctor
Back